Stomach Inflammation (Atrophic) in Cats

Atrophic Gastritis in Cats

Interruptions in the working of the stomach of a cat can be brought on by several conditions. When the stomach is interrupted in its normal operation, a condition called stasis can result. Stasis occurs when the stomach slows its contractions, and may even stop working altogether. This leads to bloating and build-up of gas in the stomach, which can be an uncomfortable condition for an animal.

Symptoms and Types

Causes

When movement (motility) of the stomach slows or stops, there are many things to consider as possible causes. Problems with the stomach itself and its ability to contract are rare causes of stasis, but do occur. These types of problems are uncommon in young animals.

The signs and symptoms of stasis are usually the result of an underlying problem that causes the stomach to stop working. Such problems may include:

In cats, stomach motility disorders are not as common. The main cause of such problems in cats is an accumulation of hair in the stomach (i.e., hairballs).

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will perform routine tests to rule out any potential cause of vomiting. Basic tests include a physical exam, complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry profile, urinalysis, fecal examination and X-rays. If necessary, a special imaging technique called a contrast study may be used. This study will involve giving the cat an oral dose of liquid material (barium) that shows up on X-rays. Films are taken at various stages to examine the passage of the barium through the body.

Specialized tests may be necessary if routine and less invasive examinations do not point to the problem. In some cases, a flexible scope with a camera (endoscope) may be used to examine the stomach and intestine. This test requires that the animal be placed under anesthesia. Small samples of tissue (biopsy) may be taken for testing through the use of the scope. These samples will help rule out serious conditions in the stomach such as cancer.

Treatment

The majority of patients can be treated with dietary changes at home. Low-fat and low-fiber foods in a semi-liquid or liquid consistency are usually prescribed. Feedings should be given in frequent, small amounts. In many cases of stomach motility disorders, dietary changes alone will manage the problem. In cases that include serious vomiting and dehydration, cats must be hospitalized and treated with fluids and electrolytes given intravenously (IV). Depending on the underlying disease process, surgery may be indicated to correct the problem (e.g., cancer).

Drug therapy can help increase muscle contractions and allow movement of materials out of the stomach in animals with long-term problems. The two main drugs used in the treatment of stasis are metoclopramide and cisapride. Metoclopramide is an oral medication with anti-vomiting properties which is given 30 to 45 minutes prior to feeding. Reversible side effects can occur with this medication and include behavior changes, depression, or hyperactivity.

Cisapride is an oral medication also given about 30 minutes prior to meals. It stimulates motility and is shown to be more effective than metoclopramide. Cisapride does not cause the same nervous system side effects; however, it may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression. In cats, cisapride may be helpful for hairball problems. This medication has been limited due to side effects in humans, but can be obtained by veterinarians through a special pharmacy that will compound the drug.

Living and Management

Cats that do not have an underlying condition that is causing stasis of the stomach will generally respond to dietary and drug therapy. Those that do not respond to therapy should be examined more extensively for possible obstruction. In some cases, animals may need to continue medication and diet changes on a long-term basis.

enteritis

A medical condition in which the small intestines are inflamed

gastritis

A medical condition in which the stomach becomes inflamed

urinalysis

An in-depth examination of the properties of urine; used to determine the presence or absence of illness

endoscope

A type of instrument that is used to look inside the body

dehydration

A medical condition in which the body has lost fluid or water in excessive amounts

anemia

A condition of the blood in which normal red blood cell counts or hemoglobin are lacking.

biopsy

The process of removing tissue to examine it, usually for medical reasons.